UKIP call for action on drug den at Trasna Way

The Upper Bann branch of UKIP are trying to get action taken about an anti-social hotspot in Lurgan just off Connolly Place and adjacent to the Trasna Way mental health facility. The alleyway is being used daily for drug and alcohol abuse and the party is trying to have something done through the council and police. Pictured at the site are from left, Martin Whitehead, Upper Bann committee member, David Jameson, chairman, Lindsey White, staff member at neighbouring business, Maxwells, Jonathan Johns, Upper Bann UKIP secretary, and Councillor David Jones, ABC Council. INLM08-200.

The entry beside a special mental health facility has been a magnet for kids drinking illegally and doing drugs.

UKIP’s local representative Jonathan Johns said it is a serious hazard.

The alleyway, which is at the back of Trasna House Community Mental Health Resource Centre, is a hotbed of anti-social behaviour particularly at the weekend.

Mr Johns, who said the mental health centre offers a wide range of mental health therapies including addictions for the Craigavon and Banbridge area, said staff at the unit have witnessed fights and both adults and children drinking alcohol during most evenings of the week and an increase in this behaviour at the weekends.

“Often bottles and cans are thrown into the grounds of Trasna House and staff are at times interrupted during counselling and other therapy sessions,” said Mr Johns.

“The PSNI have been called on numerous occasions due to concerns from local residents and healthcare staff.

“What is also worrying is that school children also congregate there before and after school. Many are smoking and some appear underage.

“The alleyway is littered with broken bottles, cans, bottles, old boxes of beer and general litter and, not only is it an eyesore, but it’s a real health and safety hazard.

“Anybody using this alleyway is at high risk of sustaining an injury, especially the school children who could easily lose their footing and fall on the large amount of glass,” said Mr Johns.

David Jones, who is UKIP NI’s spokesperson for health and councillor in the new ABC Super council, says he is committed to working for all the residents of Upper Bann and will be on the ground to assist with any problems that are been experienced by residents/businesses.

Mr Johns said UKIP will be holding a branch meeting on March 25 to highlight this issue and will be contacting the Council to ask for immediate action.

Mr Johns said he wants the alleyway cleaned up.

He also wants to explore practical ways of making the area safer for the community.

There was no response from the PSNI at the time of going to press.